Teach Me Your Ways, O God
As has been said before, the sung prayer (psalm) after the 1st reading usually is a reflection of that reading. In the 1st reading, Jonah is surprised that his preaching changed the hearts of the people of Nineveh. Jonah probably was not too happy with God, who showed forgiveness and unconditional love to these people who were enemies of the Israelites. Psalm 25 reminds us to take a posture of listening and humility with God. We pray for wisdom to walk the path God sets before us. We acknowledge that God extends mercy and salvation to all who request it. We are challenged to be open to God’s ways and teachings, and also a change of heart.
Make me know your ways, O God; Teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are God, my savior.
Remember your mercy, O God, and your steadfast love,
which you have given from of old.
Remember not the sins of my youth, or my transgression;
But in your goodness, remember me according to your steadfast love.
You, O God, are good and upright. You instruct sinners in your way.
You lead the humble in the right path; you teach your way to the poor.
[verses adapted from People’s Companion to the Breviary © 1997 by the Carmelites of Indianapolis]